THE REGIMENT CONTINUED

Still fresh in the minds of many is the inspiring picture of the Harvard Regiment as it passed in review before Major-General Leonard Wood on Memorial Day last spring. Many were pleasantly surprised at that time to see a proof of the serious spirit of patriotism which actually existed among the members of the University. Some had doubted if the enthusiasm for the drill would last a month, and scoffed at the possibility of establishing regular military drill as part of the curriculum.

For many reasons the work of the Regiment reflected great credit on its members but particularly because the entire plan was originated and developed without any voluntary aid on the part of the War Department. This year the tables are turned and the War Department has offered to establish one or more units of the reserve officers' training 'corps' at Harvard. Therefore a different character of responsibility rests upon the students, it is to recognize the value of the War Department's move and convince the military authorities by a large enrolment in the new course that the undergraduates desire military instruction.

Besides gaining credit towards his degree, a student, after a two-years course in military science will be recommended to be placed on the list of reserve officers. The great value of such a plan is evident, for by taking those courses which are included in the regular curriculum a man may fit himself to take a commission in the reserve army in time of war. Previous to this new plan of creating college units of the reserve officers' training corps, anyone wishing a commission would have been compelled to have taken an additional course in some military school.

To provide for Juniors and Seniors who can only take one year of military science, an exception to the minimum course of two years has been made. If such men have attended any of the summer camps, the work already done will be accepted, and they may be recommended for a commission without having completed the required two years' course.

The final detail of officers for the Harvard Unit will depend upon the number enrolled in the course. A small number will mean only one officer, whereas, if six or seven hundred signify their intention of taking the course, the appointment of two special officers will be certain. The spirit of service and patriotism which created the Harvard Regiment is still strong among Harvard undergraduates, and will unquestionably support the establishment of an officers' training corps unit at Harvard.